“In the state of Illinois, we can’t dispose of that horse on our own property anymore,” Burzynski said, arguing that Cavel is a humane solution for disposing of an animal at the end of its life.

“People have made this into an animal-rights issue, which I don’t believe is really applicable here.”

It’s an economic issue, he said, and the plant in DeKalb would have to close if the governor signs the legislation.

“This bill costs money,” Burzynski said. “It takes money out of the state of Illinois. It takes money out of the city of DeKalb.”

James Tucker, general manager of the plant, said Cavel International employs 55 people in DeKalb, all of whom would lose their jobs if the business closes. And the Illinois economy would lose $30 million in foreign trade revenue, he said.

Cullerton said he was sure the plant could reopen slaughtering livestock, but Burzynski and Tucker said that’s just not true.